1. Bumps and Bruises

The classic bump—whether it’s a stumble over a toy or an epic couch-dive fail, it’s all part of growing up. These are usually harmless, but they do look dramatic, especially on a toddler-sized forehead.

What to Do:

• Apply a Cold Pack: Wrap an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) in a tea towel and apply it to the bump for 10–15 minutes. It reduces swelling and earns you bonus points as the “cool parent.”
• Monitor for Serious Symptoms: Most bumps are no biggie, but if your child seems unusually drowsy, confused, or vomits after a head injury, it’s time to see a doctor.

Top Tip: Distract them with their favourite show while you hold the ice pack in place—nothing soothes a bump like an episode of Bluey.

2. Minor Burns

From curious little hands grabbing a hot coffee cup to accidental contact with a stove, minor burns are unfortunately all too common.

What to Do:

• Cool the Burn: Immediately run cool (not icy) water over the area for 20 minutes. If you’re out and about, use a clean, wet cloth to cool it down, but running water is best.
• Cover It: Once cooled, cover the burn with a non-stick dressing or clean plastic wrap to protect it from infection.
• Avoid Home Remedies: No butter, no ice, no toothpaste—just good ol’ H2O.

If the burn is larger than a 20-cent coin, on the face, or blistered, seek medical advice.

3. Cuts and Scrapes

From playground adventures to backyard mishaps, a scraped knee or tiny cut is a common occurrence in toddler life.

What to Do:

• Stop the Bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. Most minor cuts stop bleeding quickly.
• Clean the Wound: Rinse with clean water (tap water is fine) to remove dirt or debris.
• Apply Antiseptic: Pop on a dab of antiseptic cream to ward off germs.
• Bandage It Up: Cover the cut with a Band-Aid or sterile dressing. Bonus points for using a fun cartoon Band-Aid that will instantly turn tears into smiles.

Pro Tip: Keep the praise coming! “Wow, you’re so brave!” works wonders when paired with a colourful Band-Aid.

4. Splinters

Splinters are small but mighty in the drama department. They’ll have you convinced your child’s life is ruined—until it’s out.

What to Do:

• Sterilise Your Tweezers: Use alcohol or boiling water to clean your tweezers before starting.
• Remove the Splinter: Gently pull it out at the same angle it entered. For deeper splinters, a sterilised needle can help tease it out. If approaching with a splinter with a needle, it’s best to have a helper distract your small person. Needles can look very scary. 
• Clean and Cover: Wash the area with soapy water, dry and pop on a Band-Aid if needed.

5. Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are a little unsettling but usually harmless—especially if your child loves picking their nose (they all do, let’s be honest).

What to Do:

• Sit Them Up: Keep your child upright and leaning slightly forward. This prevents blood from flowing down their throat and being swallowed.
• Pinch the Nostrils: Use your fingers to gently pinch their nostrils together for about 10 minutes.
• Skip the Tissue Stuffing: Avoid stuffing tissues up their nose—it’s tempting, but it can irritate the lining.

When to Worry: If the bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes or is happening frequently, it’s time for a GP visit.

6. Insect Bites and Stings

Between mozzies, ants, and the occasional bee, insect bites are part and parcel of Aussie life.

What to Do:

• Clean the Area: Wash with soapy water to remove any irritants.
• Apply a Cold Pack: Reducing swelling and itchiness works wonders.
• Use Sting Relief Cream: Baby-safe antihistamine cream or gel can soothe the itch and prevent scratching.

If your child has difficulty breathing, swelling around the face, or other signs of an allergic reaction, call 000 immediately.